Is there anything better than watching your dog bolt toward the water, tail wagging, ears flapping, and paws skimming across the sand? For those of us who call the Gold Coast home or are lucky enough to visit, days like these are not hard to find. The region is dotted with scenic, dog-friendly beaches where sunny days turn into sandy adventures, and your four-legged mate can enjoy just as much fun as you.
Let us walk you through some of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast and share a few handy tips to help you prep for the paw-fect beach day. Whether your pooch loves sprinting along the waves or prefers a casual wade in calmer waters, there is a beach for every kind of pup.
1. The Spit Dog Beach
The Spit is for dogs who love to run wild and free. Stretching along the northern end of Main Beach, this area offers long expanses of dunes to dart across and views of the Broadwater to the west. It is one of the most well-loved off-leash dog beaches on the Gold Coast and for good reason.
What makes this beach even better is its thoughtful dog-friendly setup. You will find clean drinking water, dog bowls, and hoses to rinse off sandy paws before heading home.
The adjacent Muriel Henchman Park offers shaded parking and easy access to both the beach and Broadwater lagoon. And if you feel like grabbing a bite after all that playing, there are nearby cafés that welcome your furry companion.
The Spit is best suited for energetic dogs who thrive in wide open spaces. However, this beach tends to fill up on weekends, so it is worth heading there early or visiting during the week if you prefer a bit more space.
2. Tallebudgera Off-Leash Dog Beach
If you are after a spot that feels a little more tucked away, head to Tallebudgera Off-Leash Dog Beach. Located just north of the Tallebudgera Surf Life Saving Club, this 24/7 off-leash dog beach is one of the best dog beaches on the Gold Coast for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquillity.
Your dog can romp through open sand, paddle in the surf, splash through the creek, or explore the climbable rock formations along the edges. And with Burleigh Head National Park as your backdrop, it is hard to find a more scenic stretch of coast.
This beach is a gem for dogs who love variety. Think creek crossing, climbing, sniffing, and swimming all in one place. If your pup is a little more reserved, there are areas with fewer distractions and less foot traffic.
3. Currumbin Creek
Currumbin offers the best of both worlds. With its gentle current, the creek is a great choice for dogs who are easing into swimming or prefer a relaxed paddle next to their humans. And, if your dog loves a bit more action, the surf beach is only steps away.
One of the standout features of this beach is how clean and well-kept it is. After a dip, you can head over to the nearby Dune Café, which is dog-friendly and perfect for a mid-morning coffee or post-swim snack. It is convenient if you are looking to pair your beach day with a café catch-up.
4. Palm Beach Off-Leash Area
Palm Beach is one of the busiest dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast, particularly on the weekends, but it has clearly designated dog areas that are fully off-leash. It is best to go during the week if you want to avoid crowds and give your dog more space to explore.
The off-leash zones are well-marked, and there is plenty of room for social pups to play and interact. With its wide shoreline and good surf, Palm Beach is a hit for active dogs that love a splash and a chase.
If you are looking to meet other dog owners or your pup loves making friends, this is the beach for you. Just make sure to check the signs on arrival to stay within the designated off-leash areas.
5. Biggera Waters Beach
Smaller and more low-key than the southern beaches, Biggera Waters offers a peaceful option for those who prefer quieter outings. This foreshore is mostly on-leash, but there is a designated off-leash swimming area open daily from 5:00 am to 8:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
There is also a paved footpath running alongside the beach, which is ideal if you would rather avoid sandy feet while still letting your dog enjoy the view and fresh air.
Biggera Waters is a great choice for early risers or dogs that do not love crowds. It offers a relaxed setting and still gives your pooch a chance to splash around during off-leash hours.
6. Paradise Point
Up on the northern end of the coast, Paradise Point is a favourite among local families, both human and canine. The off-leash zone is located along the foreshore beside the parklands and offers calm, shallow water that is ideal for gentle swimmers.
It is also adjacent to shady parklands, which makes it easy to retreat from the sun when your dog needs a break. The location is especially good for older dogs, smaller breeds, or anyone easing their pup into beach visits.
If you have younger children in tow or want to make a day of it, this is a well-rounded spot with lots of space to relax.
Beach Day Checklist for Dog Owners
Before heading out, it helps to pack a few essentials. First, make sure you bring plenty of clean drinking water and a bowl. Even if there are dog bowls on-site, having your own ensures your dog stays hydrated on the spot.
Make sure you pack pet-safe sunscreen, particularly if your dog has lighter fur or skin that can easily burn. Bring along a beach umbrella or pop-up tent to give your dog a cool, shady spot to relax whenever they need a break from the sun. It is also a good idea to pack waste bags to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.
And, do not forget towels. You will definitely want these handy for drying off those sandy paws before hopping back into your car.
While most dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast allow dogs on a lead, only certain areas are officially designated as off-leash. Beaches like The Spit, Palm Beach, and Tallebudgera are council-approved off-leash zones, giving your dog room to run free legally and safely. And, remember that dogs are not permitted within 200 metres of flagged swimming areas, so keep an eye on signage and always double-check local rules before you let the lead go.
Finally, be aware of common beach hazards that could harm sensitive paws, such as jellyfish, sharp shells, and hot sand.
Leads Off, Let’s Go!
Whether your dog enjoys splashing in the surf, exploring quiet shores, or joining you for a café stop afterwards, there is no shortage of dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast. From off-leash havens like The Spit and Tallebudgera to the peaceful charm of Paradise Point and Biggera Waters Foreshore, each spot offers something unique for you and your pup to enjoy. So grab the lead, pack your beach bag, and go exploring!
If you are ever looking for trusted options for dog boarding on the Gold Coast when planning a longer getaway, we would be happy to help. Reach out anytime to ensure your dog enjoys a comfortable stay while you relax knowing they are in safe hands.
